Auto Luminaries to Toast / Roast De Koker at May 19 MSED Gala

TROY, Mich., March 22 -- To toast or to roast? That'll be the question for several well-known auto industry executives who will speak at the black-tie gala honoring Neil De Koker, veteran auto industry executive and the founding president of the Original Equipment Suppliers Association (OESA), as he receives the "Executive Leadership Award" from the Marketing & Sales Executives of Detroit (MSED) on May 1, 20049, 2004 at the Henry Ford Museum.

Executives slated to speak in recognition of De Koker's achievements -- and perhaps offer some humorous insights, anecdotes and good-natured jabs at the man behind the OESA's success -- are:

* Peter Brown, associate publisher and editorial director for Automotive News;

* Dr. David E. Cole, chairman of the Center for Automotive Research;

* Lawrence Denton, president & chief executive officer for DURA Automotive Systems Inc.; and

* Thomas T. Stallkamp, chairman of MSX International.

"I am both humbled and honored to receive this distinguished award from the Marketing & Sales Executives of Detroit," De Koker stated. "Our goal is to have a great time at the gala event, in order to raise money for Focus: HOPE and the other charities MSED supports."

De Koker continued, "Many executives in the automotive industry have pretty healthy egos -- as one of the leading exceptions to this trend, I am a perfect candidate for good natured ribbing. I only hope my new tuxedo isn't singed."

"We're expecting our distinguished panel of toasters/roasters to add a new twist -- and a little extra fun and warmth -- to an already elegant and entertaining evening," said Denise Scioli, chairwoman of the MSED gala event and director of sales and marketing for Blue Sky Productions. "This promises to be our best event ever -- and we expect a sell-out crowd."

According to Scioli, the charity event recognizes the exceptional achievements of business executives and sales and marketing professionals in southeastern Michigan.

Net proceeds from the gala, which is the 12th annual black-tie fundraiser hosted by the Marketing & Sales Executives of Detroit, will benefit the MSED scholarship fund and Focus: HOPE.

The event will also recognize three of the Detroit area's top sales and marketing achievers with MSED's Platinum Award, which is sponsored by Crain's Detroit Business. These winners are nominated by their professional peers and selected for their exceptional sales and marketing performance in the southeastern Michigan business community during 2003.

Tickets for the gala black-tie charity event cost $150 for MSED members and $195 for non-members. This price includes an elegant strolling dinner, valet parking and an afterglow reception.

For information on tickets, event details or sponsorship and advertising opportunities, contact Meeting Coordinators at 248-643-6590 or visit the organization's website at www.msedetroit.org .

NOTE TO EDITOR: Founded in 1988, the Marketing & Sales Executives of Detroit (MSED) is a non-profit organization for marketing and sales management professionals in southeastern Michigan. MSED provides members with an ongoing platform for idea exchange, professional development and new business opportunities. The organization conducts approximately 15 meetings, seminars and educational events each year for networking, professional development and scholarship fund-raising purposes.